THERE are three new arrivals at Newquay Zoo after its lack and white ruffed lemurs welcomed triplets.

The pups were born in late April, but have only now been spotted coming out of their house on Lemur Island.

All males, the triplet pups have been outside exploring their outside enclosure along with siblings Asotry and Asara, with parents Bary and Yhoda keeping a close eye.

 

One of the triplet lemurs at Newquay Zoo. Photo:David Folland

One of the triplet lemurs at Newquay Zoo. Photo:David Folland

 

This is brilliant news for the zoo, as it will increase the numbers of the ex-situ population of black and white ruffed lemurs, which are critically endangered in the wild.

Black and white ruffs are not only distinctive due to their thick, striking coats, but they are also the largest species of lemur and one of the loudest primates, second only to howler monkeys.

Dave Rich, Newquay Zoo keeper team leader, said: “All three of the triplets, which have been microchipped and sexed as boys, are doing really well. They’re having plenty of fun exploring their new enclosure, playing together, and learning how to be lemurs from the rest of the family.

“We’re incredibly proud to have black and white ruffed lemurs at Newquay Zoo. Not only are they incredibly cute, but they are one of the 11 primate species here that are part of a European-wide breeding programme to help safeguard the future of the species.”

 

The pups have been outside exploring their surroundings. Photo: David Folland

The pups have been outside exploring their surroundings. Photo: David Folland

 

Visitors to Newquay Zoo can find the black and white ruffed lemur triplets near the zoo entrance and can even watch them explore Lemur Island from the terrace of Café Lemur.

For more information about the zoo, to get the best price on entry tickets, and to plan your visit, go to: www.newquayzoo.org.uk